Research Fellow in Electron Microscopy

Overview

The School of Biosciences at the University of Birmingham has a Research Fellow position in integrative structural biology, in the group of Prof Teresa Carlomagno. The group investigates how proteins, including intrinsically disordered proteins, nucleic acids and their complexes work, using advanced nuclear magnetic resonance methods alongside cryo-electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, small-angle scattering and fluorescence microscopy. The university has recently acquired an FEI Glacios 3 cryo-electron microscope with a Falcon 4i direct electron detector and cold field emission gun, which together with NMR, mass spectrometry and light microscopy facilities supports high-resolution studies of biological macromolecules.

The Research Fellow will use cryo-EM and complementary approaches to study RNA metabolism and the regulation of gene expression, and will have opportunities to develop new integrative structural biology methods. Duties include developing research objectives and proposals, operating the microscope, producing and purifying biomolecular complexes, optimising cryo-EM grid preparation, setting up data analysis protocols from micrographs to structures, using molecular biology and biophysical techniques, validating mechanisms in cells, disseminating findings, supervising students and contributing to funding applications.

Requirements

Candidates need a PhD, or be near completion, in biophysics, biochemistry, chemical biology, structural biology or a related discipline. They need proficiency in single-particle cryo-EM, including data acquisition, image processing, 3D reconstruction and structural analysis, plus cryo-EM sample preparation, and practical biochemical laboratory experience or nucleic acid handling. Strong analytical and communication skills, a record of peer-reviewed publications and the ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary international teams are also expected.

What you get

The full-time, fixed-term post has a normal starting salary of £36,636 to £46,049, with potential progression once in post to £48,822. Applications are welcome from candidates in Europe and other overseas countries, and financial support for visa application fees is available subject to eligibility and policy. The university is open to discussing flexible working.

How to apply

The full job description and online application are available through the university's recruitment pages. Informal enquiries can be made to Prof Carlomagno.

Key dates

The closing date is 18 October 2026.